Water quality, not just scarcity, may shape future competition for a limited resource

Water scarcity and quality will both play a role in shaping future competition for the limited resource, according to new research. While low water levels in European rivers this summer have highlighted the issue of scarcity, the study's principal investigator Gabriel Cárdenas Belleza emphasizes that quality is equally important.

Different sectors have varying water quality needs, and the consequences of these factors will differ depending on the region and sector. In the U.S. and Europe, where population growth is expected to level off in the long term, the reduction in freshwater supply may be offset by decreased household demand. However, this does not mean that these areas are safe from future challenges.

While reduced freshwater availability may be compensated by lower household demand, increased heat waves could cause river water to become too warm for cooling purposes, potentially leading to power plant and factory shutdowns. The research, published in the journal npj Clean Water, also found that increased pollution and reduced water volume resulting from higher water use will lead to higher pollutant concentrations.

This will intensify competition for clean water among various sectors, with sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East facing the least favorable prospects. The researchers estimate that demand for water for domestic use in these regions could increase by a staggering 1,225%. However, this demand surge will also contribute to a 1,900% reduction in water quality.

Industry and power plants are particularly vulnerable when higher water temperatures make it difficult to cool their processes. This raises the question of whether production processes should be adjusted and whether the energy sector should undergo an accelerated overhaul. The study's findings underscore the need for strong, cross-border policy measures to address the complex challenges posed by water scarcity and quality.